Bus driver heard ‘screaming’ from a car and decided to follow it — she saved a woman’s life
Whether commuters or drivers, as responsible citizens, we all should carry the obligation of being vigilant at all times. There is so much that goes unnoticed and can cost someone their lives. A Milwaukee bus driver observed something unusual while carrying out her regular duty on her route back in 2021, as reported by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She thought she heard someone yelling in a passing van and decided to follow it. Her smart action rescued a woman in need and saved her life. An activist named Vaun Mayes shared more about the incident in a Facebook post and urged people to be on the lookout and practice awareness regularly.
“This is what we meant by asking our city to step up and get involved. A school bus driver thought she heard screaming coming from a van with tinted windows and followed it,” the post mentioned. It was further explained that the driver called the vehicle in and persisted in following. It was only later realized that there was a woman in the van, taken by force. “The lady found inside had been abducted and has now been recovered,” the post revealed. The Milwaukee police revealed that the woman was forcefully taken into the vehicle at 6.45 am from West National Avenue, near Cesar Chavez Drive.
The van moved and took her about a half-mile away to the 1100 block of West Pierce Street. Around then, the woman was reportedly trying to ask for help when the driver spotted her and followed her. Had it not been for her intervention, it would have probably been too late before the woman received help. Mayes shared a video of police cars and an ambulance standing at the scene, taking control of the situation. The suspect was a 26-year-old, who was also suspected of similar happenings from earlier. “Whoever this driver is needs to be honored for potentially saving this lady's life and or from possibly being trafficked,” Mayes wrote.
The activist added, “Y’all keep your eyes and ears open out here!" Sharing another detailed caution for the area, the post read, “Be especially vigilant, ladies, on the southside. I've heard a lot of abduction attempt stories from over there and a lot of people don't report the unsuccessful attempts.” Many people commended the bus driver and stressed the importance of Mayes’ message to be vigilant. Peggy West said, “We need everyone to be like this driver. Imagine the community we would create if we all cared about each other this way.” Remy Wilson added, “She’s a hero and should be honored.”
Catherine Stagmer remarked, “We have some of the most amazing bus drivers. They pay such good attention to what is going on. Thankful for the driver who did something, so many wouldn’t take that step.” Judy Moore said, “The bus driver is a saint. What a blessing for this woman and many others, they have someone in custody.” Paula Musgrove said, “A life saved! Give the driver more than a medal. Way above the call of duty.”